1985 AC Cobra vs. 1998 Proton 300
To start off, 1998 Proton 300 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 AC Cobra (320 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 245 more horse power than 1998 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1998 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 AC Cobra weights approximately 137 kg more than 1998 Proton 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 AC Cobra is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1985 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Proton 300, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1985 AC Cobra (522 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 414 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Proton 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 AC Cobra | 1998 Proton 300 | |
| Make | AC | Proton |
| Model | Cobra | 300 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 522 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2450 mm |
